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- HARMONY HOME CONTROL REVIEW UPDATE
- HARMONY HOME CONTROL REVIEW PC
- HARMONY HOME CONTROL REVIEW BLUETOOTH
- HARMONY HOME CONTROL REVIEW PS3
In fact, initial setup of the Smart Control is done via the mobile app, as is initiating a sync to update changes to the simple remote without tethering. But, as you might expect, those touchscreens can also be used for programming. You can still do that with this new lineup and indeed, some settings are only configurable that way. Harmony remotes used to be programmed via a PC. It also makes getting mobile devices up and running as simple as installing an app and logging in with your credentials. In fact, other than firmware updates and configuring WiFi on the Touch remote, included with the Ultimate option, you'll never need to use the bundled USB cable.
HARMONY HOME CONTROL REVIEW PC
It enables some great use cases, like no longer needing to plug the remote into your PC to make a change. The cloud approach to programming does lend itself well to the Hub lineup, though. If you're frustrated by navigating wizards to edit settings and contacting support to load in discrete HEX IR codes, then that won't change either. If you already love the cloud-based programmability of, then you still will. The success of Logitech's Harmony remotes has always been due to a combination of great hardware and easy programming. Also, we'd love to be able to control a TiVo or DirecTV Genie via IP, for example. Now it's true that IR is still the only truly universal home theater control protocol, but we don't think that's a reason to avoid supporting more. These would raise the accuracy of macros by confirming the equipment's power status.
HARMONY HOME CONTROL REVIEW BLUETOOTH
The addition of Bluetooth will be great for those who rely on their Bluetooth-controlled game consoles, like the PS3, but we really would've liked more options, including support for RS-232 for two-way control or optional sensors like power or video-out.
HARMONY HOME CONTROL REVIEW PS3
Inside we have 802.11b/g/n, Bluetooth (currently only able to control the PS3 and Wii) and Logitech's proprietary Unity RF for two-way interaction with the Harmony Touch and the simple remote bundled with the Smart Control. There's a single LED up front, which we didn't find distracting while watching TV, and it provides valuable feedback as to the state of the device, such as its connectivity and current activity.Īround back, there are only two ports for external IR blasters, but they aren't required as a pair of built-in IR emitters should be enough to control devices that have a line of sight to the Hub. The wall-wart-style external power supply connects via the same USB port that can be used to program the Hub via your computer. There's no dedicated power port, but it sports a micro-USB socket (instead of mini-USB) and a button on the back for pairing or resetting the device. This small puck looks almost exactly like the Harmony Link, though a little less round. But the 700 still has plenty to offer.The common thread tying together these three products is the Hub. In fact, if you're looking for a budget universal remote, it's the 555 we'd recommend (while still available), while those after something flashier should opt for the One.
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Sure, for most people this is enough, but it's bizarre considering that the much older and cheaper Harmony 555 can operate 15. In action the 700 works just as well as its Logitech siblings, but it will control just six devices. The 700 does without the One's dedicated dock, too, but does have an AC adapter for recharging. In fact, it's ergonomically identical, but has a slightly less luxurious finish and a smaller screen that has context-sensitive buttons to the side rather than proper touch sensitivity. So, the Harmony 700: it's essentially a stripped-down version of the Harmony One. You're welcome to tinker and add extra functions and tweaks to these macros, but the default settings will get almost any system up and running with ease – the only thing it can't operate as standard is the PS3, which requires an optional adapter. These are then mapped to a single button press on the remote. Simply tell the web-based system what kit you've got, and it will recommend activities that will utilise them.
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The more pertinent question is: which model in the burgeoning range is the one to get?Īll Harmony remotes share the same key strength – the set-up software. If you're after a universal remote, buying a Logitech (opens in new tab) Harmony is the way to go.
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